Coming into the season, the Rams knew that their Mountain West Conference opponents were going to be strong, competitive and challenging. Nevertheless, the Rams never shy away from a challenge.

Even though the team fell to the No. 44 Utah Utes Friday, 7-0, the CSU players fought for their points. The Rams, as a team, never gave up. Instead they persisted and gave the Utes an aggressive match.

In singles, true freshman and Utah local Tori Arneson demonstrated an eagerness, intensity and determination. Playing at the No. 3 position, Arneson contested with Leigh Walsh in a hard-hitting battle. Despite Arneson's aggressive effort and will to win, Walsh earned the victory, 6-3, 7-6 (2).

The No. 1, No. 2 and No. 4 positions were close, but didn't go the Rams' way. Laura Neal, Lauren Strasburger and Greer Satherlie gave their opponents a see-saw battle in the first set. Unfortunately, the Rams could not keep their momentum during the second set and were defeated in all three positions.

In doubles, the Utes swept all three matches. The Utes entered into singles play with a 1-0 advantage over the Rams.

The Rams will travel to Ogden, Utah (Arneson's hometown) Saturday, when they will face off with Weber State. Match play begins at 10 a.m. MDT.